Hearing impaired New Jersey woman wants DWI charge dropped

New Jersey readers may find an unusual criminal case interesting, as it emphasizes language barriers. The case stems from a DWI charge that a deaf woman is seeking to have dismissed because she claims that she did not understand what the police were saying to her. This case could serve as an example of the importance of police being accommodating with people from all walks of life.

Last year, a deaf woman was pulled over in her vehicle before being charged with DWI. She states that she did not understand what police were telling her, and that she did not understand that she was obligated to submit to a breath test. The woman further states that, had an interpreter been called, her understanding would have been greater.

Authorities maintain their position, stating that the arresting officer handled the situation appropriately. They contend that the officer communicated with the woman in writing, and that she appeared to understand their communication. She was charged with DWI and also received citations.

The woman is requesting that a New Jersey judge dismiss the DWI charge and the citations, based on her lack of understanding what her obligations were once she was at police headquarters. In order to understand the details of the case against her, she has secured the assistance of a representative who is aiding her in her efforts. A DWI charge can carry significant consequences in New Jersey if a conviction is obtained. Therefore, it is important for anyone accused to fight these allegations by speaking with an experienced attorney who will assist in overcoming any language barriers or difficulty understanding the law.

Source: CourierPostOnline.com, “Deaf woman seeks dismissal of DUI,” Jan. 10, 2013